Exploring Japan: A Traveler’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Japan

The land of the rising sun, Japan is a country filled with an abundance of natural beauty, intriguing cultural heritage, and exciting adventures. From the high-tech cities of Tokyo and Osaka to the picturesque mountain villages of the countryside, Japan offers a wealth of sights and activities for curious travelers. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, an educational exploration, or just a chance to relax, Japan has something for everyone. Here’s a traveler’s guide to the best things to do in Japan.

Visit the Ancient Temples of Kyoto

Kyoto is home to some of the most beautiful and important temples in Japan. Filled with intricate carvings, tranquil gardens, and peaceful atmospheres, these temples offer a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual past. The most famous of these temples is Kiyomizu-dera, which is located atop a hill overlooking the city. Another classic temple is the Golden Pavilion, a golden-hued structure that is a symbol of Kyoto. Finally, the Sanjusangen-do temple is home to hundreds of statues of Buddhist deities.

Visiting these temples is an excellent way to learn more about Japan’s history and culture. It’s also a great opportunity to take in some stunning views of the city and its surrounding areas. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even join a guided tour to explore some of the city’s lesser-known temples.

Kyoto is also home to some of the best restaurants and shopping opportunities in the country. From traditional kaiseki cuisine to modern fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. Shopping in Kyoto is also a great experience, as the city is home to some of the most unique and stylish boutiques in the country.

Explore the Old Towns of Nikko and Kamakura

Exploring the old towns of Nikko and Kamakura is a great way to get a glimpse into Japan’s past. The former is famous for its shrines and temples, while the latter is home to some of Japan’s best beaches and surfing spots. Both towns offer a unique experience that is sure to be a memorable part of your trip.

In Nikko, a visit to the Toshogu Shrine is a must. This shrine is the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The shrine is a stunning example of Japanese architecture and is filled with intricate carvings and woodwork. Another highlight of Nikko is the Kegon Falls, a stunning waterfall that is one of the country’s most famous natural wonders.

In Kamakura, visitors can explore the historic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a shrine that has been in existence since 1180. The temple grounds are filled with beautiful gardens and interesting architecture. Another popular activity in Kamakura is to visit one of the many beaches in the area. Surfing is popular here, but if you’d rather just relax, there are plenty of spots to enjoy the views of the ocean.

Soak in the Hot Springs of Hakone

Hakone is a small town located in the foothills of Mount Fuji. The town is famous for its hot springs, which offer visitors a chance to relax and recharge. The hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties, and many visitors come to Hakone for its relaxing atmosphere. There are several different types of hot springs, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

In addition to the hot springs, Hakone also offers a variety of outdoor activities. Hiking is popular in the area, and there are plenty of trails that offer stunning views of Mount Fuji. You can also visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where you can explore the art and architecture of the area. Finally, make sure to stop by the Hakone Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine that is nestled in the forest.

Experience the Natural Beauty of Hokkaido

Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan, and it is home to some of the country’s most stunning natural scenery. From the white-sand beaches of the Sea of Japan to the snow-capped mountains of the interior, Hokkaido is a paradise for nature lovers. In the summertime, visitors can enjoy the outdoors by hiking, camping, and fishing. In the winter, the island is transformed into a winter wonderland, with skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing popular activities.

The city of Sapporo is the perfect base for exploring Hokkaido. Here, you can find plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment. The city is also home to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, an event that takes place every February and features snow sculptures, ice sculptures, and live music. In addition, there are several ski resorts in the area that offer visitors the chance to hit the slopes.

If you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, there are plenty of small towns and villages that offer a unique insight into the culture and history of Hokkaido. From quaint fishing villages to picturesque mountain towns, Hokkaido offers something for everyone.

Visit the Castles of Himeji and Matsumoto

Two of Japan’s most impressive castles can be found in the cities of Himeji and Matsumoto. The Himeji Castle is considered one of the most beautiful and impressive castles in Japan. It’s also one of the best-preserved castles in the country, and a visit to the castle is sure to be a highlight of your trip. In addition, the castle grounds are filled with beautiful gardens and stunning views of the city.

The Matsumoto Castle is another impressive structure. This castle is known for its unique black exterior, which is a stark contrast to the white walls of other castles. The castle is also home to a number of interesting artifacts and exhibits, which tell the story of the castle’s past. A visit to the castle is a great way to learn more about Japan’s history.

Himeji and Matsumoto are also great places to explore the culture of Japan. The cities are filled with museums, shops, and restaurants that offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture. In addition, the cities are home to some of the best traditional gardens in the country, which are perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Explore Tokyo

No visit to Japan is complete without a visit to Tokyo. This bustling metropolis is home to a variety of attractions, from ancient temples to bustling nightlife. Explore the city’s many districts, from the hip and trendy Harajuku to the historic Asakusa. You can also explore the city’s many parks, which are filled with stunning gardens and outdoor activities.

Shopping is also a great way to experience Tokyo. From department stores to small boutiques, there’s something for everyone. And of course, no visit to Tokyo is complete without trying some of the city’s famous street food. From takoyaki to okonomiyaki, there are plenty of delicious treats to try.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, visit the Tsukiji Fish Market. Here, you can explore the stalls and get a glimpse into the city’s vibrant seafood culture. You can also sample some of the freshest seafood in the city, from sushi to sashimi.

Experience Okinawa’s Tropical Paradise

Okinawa is a small island off the coast of mainland Japan, and it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The island is filled with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation. The island is also home to a unique culture, as it was once an independent kingdom. Okinawa is a great place to relax and soak up the sun, and it’s also a great place to explore traditional Japanese culture.

In addition to its beaches, Okinawa is home to some of the best food in the country. The island is known for its traditional Okinawan cuisine, which features a mix of Japanese and Chinese flavors. For a more modern experience, head to the city of Naha, where you can find a variety of international restaurants and cafes.

Okinawa is also home to some of the best nightlife in Japan. From vibrant clubs to traditional bars, the island has something for everyone. You can also explore the island’s unique culture by visiting one of its many festivals, which feature traditional music, dance, and food.

Experience the Beauty of Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island is one of the most beautiful places in Japan. Located off the coast of Hiroshima, the island is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. The island is famous for its “floating” torii gate, which is said to be the most photographed landmark in Japan. The island is also home to some of the best hiking trails in the country, as well as several beautiful temples and shrines.

In addition to its natural beauty, Miyajima is home to some of the best food in Japan. The island is famous for its oysters, which are served in a variety of ways. You can also sample some of the island’s unique cuisine, such as the local version of okonomiyaki. And of course, no visit to Miyajima would be complete without trying the island’s famous oyster ice cream.

Miyajima is also home to some of the best hot springs in the country. The waters of the hot springs are believed to have healing properties, and a visit to the hot springs is sure to be a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Visit the Historic Sites of Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a city filled with history and culture. The city is most famous for its tragic past, as it was the site of the first atomic bomb attack in 1945. Today, visitors can explore the city’s many historical sites, such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which is dedicated to the victims of the bombing. The park is also home to the Peace Memorial Museum, which tells the story of the bombing and its aftermath.

In addition to its historical sites, Hiroshima is also home to some of the best food in the country. The city is famous for its okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with a variety of ingredients. You can also sample oysters, which are a local specialty. Finally, no visit to Hiroshima would be complete without trying the city’s famous Hiroshima-style sushi.

Climb Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is Japan’s most famous mountain, and it is considered a sacred symbol of the country. Climbing Mount Fuji is an experience that is sure to be a highlight of your trip. The climb is a challenging but rewarding experience, and the views of the surrounding area are stunning. There are several trails to choose from, so you can find the one that best suits your ability.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, you can take a cable car to the summit. Here, you can take in the views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area. From the summit, you can also explore the many shrines and temples that are located on the mountain.

No matter how you decide to explore Mount Fuji, the experience is sure to be a memorable one. The mountain is a symbol of Japan, and a visit to the mountain is a great way to appreciate the country’s natural beauty.

Conclusion

Japan is a country filled with an abundance of attractions and activities. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, an educational exploration, or just a chance to relax, Japan has something for everyone. From the ancient temples of Kyoto to the picturesque beaches of Okinawa, there are plenty of things to see and do in Japan. So get out there and start exploring!